Welcome Weekend

New Student Convocation

Students enjoy confetti falling from the rafters at Great Southern Bank Arena.

A public affairs signature event.

Sunday, August 16, 2026

2:00 PM 

Great Southern Bank Arena

Experience the official campus welcome for new Bears!  

The We Factor: Building Connections That Matter is the public affairs theme for 2026-2027.
Public Affairs 2026-2027
Resilient People, Resilient Future
The New Student Convocation marks the official start of the academic year and introduces the year’s public affairs theme.